Engine failure and incorrect shutdown lead to aircraft crash at Heathrow

No fatalities • London-Heathrow, United Kingdom • Landing (descent or approach)

A film crew's mission at Heathrow Airport ended in an accident when a technical malfunction followed by a pilot error caused the aircraft to stall and crash.

What happened

During a filming mission intended to capture footage of Heathrow Airport, an aircraft carrying one pilot and two filmmakers experienced a critical failure during its landing sequence. The flight was proceeding without incident until the crew began the final approach to the runway. During this phase of flight, the right engine experienced a technical malfunction and ceased operation.

In the ensuing difficulty, the pilot inadvertently deactivated the left engine. This error resulted in an aerodynamic stall, causing the aircraft to crash before reaching the runway. There were three fatalities reported as part of the incident's impact on the crew's safety, though all three occupants managed to evacuate the wreckage. The aircraft was subsequently declared a total loss.

Findings

Investigations into the accident identified two primary contributing factors. First, the right engine suffered an uncommanded failure during the final approach. Second, the pilot's decision to shut down the incorrect engine directly led to the loss of control and the subsequent crash.

Probable cause

The aircraft lost power and stalled after a mechanical failure in the right engine was compounded by the pilot mistakenly deactivating the left engine.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1955-12-09 De Havilland DH.104 Dove accident near London-Heathrow, United Kingdom?

A film crew's mission at Heathrow Airport ended in an accident when a technical malfunction followed by a pilot error caused the aircraft to stall and crash.

Were there any fatalities in the 1955-12-09 De Havilland DH.104 Dove accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1955-12-09 involved a De Havilland DH.104 Dove, registration G-ALTM, operated by British Overseas Airways Corporation - BOAC, at London-Heathrow, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft lost power and stalled after a mechanical failure in the right engine was compounded by the pilot mistakenly deactivating the left engine.

Loading the flight search…